AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd appears in New Zealand court

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd showed up late for a New Zealand court appearance and clowned around by jumping on the back of one of his security guards outside.

Rudd did not enter a plea during his brief appearance in Tauranga.

The 60-year-old is charged with threatening to kill, which comes with a maximum prison sentence of seven years, as well as possessing methamphetamine and marijuana.

Citing a lack of evidence, prosecutors earlier dropped a more serious charge that alleged Rudd tried to hire a hit-man to kill two people.

The New Zealand Herald newspaper reported that during his appearance, Rudd winked at reporters, drummed a rhythm on the dock and then sped away from the courthouse in a black sports car.

Rudd’s future with the popular Australian band remains uncertain.

Rudd remains free on bail with his next court appearance scheduled for next Tuesday. That is coincidentally the same day that AC/DC’s new album Rock Or Bust is due to be released.

Rudd’s lawyer could not be contacted for comment.

PA